Maternity Blog & News | New Beginnings
Nurturing maternal mental health
Both pregnancy and postpartum are times of profound change for mums with many moments of joy and anticipation. However, this period can also be marked by significant – and often unexpected – struggles, both physical and emotional. And at the core of it all, maternal mental health remains a relatively stigmatised issue. So, why aren’t we talking about it more?To help shed light on how important it is to speak about mental health during the perinatal period, we sat down with Jennifer Ericksen, Consultant Senior Clinical Psychologist at the Parent-Infant Research Institute (PIRI), Austin Health. Breaking down stigma and dispelling myths There’s no universal ‘first step’ in addressing maternal mental health issues. Everyone will have their own process, but a vital part of the process is simply acknowledging these struggles and recognising that seeking help is not a sign of weakness – but rather one of strength. While the cultural landscape is shifting to a more positive mindset around mental health, there’s still work to be done in breaking down barriers to care. Addressing mental health – from conception to post-partum and beyond "Talking about mental wellbeing at all stages of the perinatal journey with both partners is important because it sets the scene that mental health is just as important as physical health during this time," says Jennifer. "Untreated depression can affect not only the mother, but those close to her, including her partner and baby. While there is evidence to show that untreated maternal depression and anxiety can influence the baby’s development, it's essential to remember that not all babies are affected, and there are protective factors that can decrease this risk. Babies are remarkably resilient, and early intervention can make a significant difference."Learn more about adress mental health through R U OK? initiative. How MumSpace is a place for 24/7 support MumSpace is a sanctuary of support for expecting and new mothers all around the world. Its stepped-care approach to support is a model that gives parents access to a selection of tools that can help them understand and manage their mental health.“MumSpace provides a woman-centred approach to health care, giving new mums the opportunity to decide what they need and when,” Jennifer says. “It starts with parental resources that give information and strategies to manage the transition to parenthood, as well as key baby-management issues like sleeping and settling.”Beyond all the helpful information on MumSpace, there is also an app called MindMum, which is designed for those who need a little extra help in mood regulation throughout the transition to motherhood.“If a mum is experiencing more challenges or feeling overwhelmed, we have two great programs with strategies to manage perinatal depression and anxiety: MumMoodBooster (postnatal) and Mum2BMoodBooster (antenatal).”MumSpace is not just a platform – it's a lifeline that connects mothers with the support and resources they need to navigate the challenges of motherhood. MumMoodBooster is a beacon of hope for Aussie parents Among the valuable resources offered by MumSpace, MumMoodBooster stands out as a game-changer. Jennifer says the program is modelled on successful evidence-based face-to-face treatment for postnatal depression and anxiety.“It’s similar to the treatment that would be received if women were to see a psychologist for therapy,” she adds. “It’s very simple to use and is tailored to the issues mums are [dealing with].”The free program is available 24/7 – ideal for the unpredictable routines that can come with raising a newborn. It includes six online sessions that are entirely interactive, with mums able to work through exercises and then save them in their own ‘workbook’, which can then be downloaded.For those who are really struggling, Jennifer says the program will point you in the right direction for extra support. “Each session has a welcome video from a coach, and the sessions are supported by motivational SMS messages. There is also an option for women who score above a certain level on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale to opt for real-life coaching through PANDA.” DadSpace as a further resource for fathers Dads also need to be conscious of their own mental health during this time as “up to 1 in 10 new dads also struggle with depression which has been found to have an impact on developmental outcomes for children,” Jennifer says. This is why PIRI have introduced a valuable resource for dads called DadBooster, an online treatment program designed to provide support and guidance. To learn more about this program, please visit www.dadspace.com.au. Strategies for maintaining positive mental wellbeing While it’s never an exact science, here are Jennifer’s strategies that expectant and new mothers can try integrating into their daily lives:● Ask for help: Seek support before you feel overwhelmed. Having planned additional support can make the transition to parenthood less stressful.● Social connection: Join groups with other mothers. First-time parents’ groups and mother and child health (MCH) nurse groups can provide valuable social connections and support.● Communicate with your partner: Openly discuss your feelings and needs with your partner or support person. Sharing your thoughts can help you navigate this new chapter together.● Give yourself time: Adjusting to the demands of parenthood takes time, both for you and your baby. Be patient and allow yourself room for growth.● Embrace the imperfections: Remember that there is no such thing as a perfect mother. Being ‘good enough’ is all that is necessary for your baby’s wellbeing.● Seek balance above all else: Maintain balance in your life by setting aside time for yourself, your baby and your partner. Self-care isn’t selfish – it's essential. There’s a world of supportive tools within your reach Thanks to platforms like MumSpace and programs like MumMoodBooster, support is now readily available for mums seeking maternal mental health support during the perinatal period. It’s equally important to remember that this isn’t just an ongoing challenge for mums – it’s something that affects the entire family, and even more broadly, our wider community. Together, we can make sure every new beginning is a joyful one and every mental health struggle is met with the support that new parents need.
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Top 10 Tips for Postpartum Recovery
After giving birth, whether through a vaginal delivery or c-section, it's important to remember that the postpartum period is a time of recovery. This means that you, Mumma, need time to rest and recoup. Regardless of how smoothly your pregnancy went or how easy your delivery was, your body has undergone significant strain and needs time to heal so you can embrace being a new mum. We’ve put together our top 10 suggestions of things you can do to help cope during this time. 1: Rest! Easier said than done when you’ve just had a baby and it feels like there’s a never-ending list of things to do, but for the next few weeks you need to be able to ask for help and accept it when it’s offered. That means the washing, cleaning and anything physical can wait. 2: Eat well Eating well not only helps you heal faster, but if you’re breastfeeding, it also helps with your baby's development. So whether you order a weekly meal plan full of nutrient rich foods delivered to the door, or your parent, friend or partner is a whizz in the kitchen, make sure you’re filling your body with foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. 3: Stay hydrated Sometimes it’s hard to keep track of how much water you’re drinking per day. Here are a few tips to keep you hydrated: Always keep a full water bottle in close reach Put a reminder every hour on your phone or watch to remind yourself to have a drink Jazz-up your water by adding a little flavour with slices of fresh fruit or a cold, flavoured tea bag Opt for herbal tea – this will help keep you warm and hydrated all in one go It’s extra important that Breastfeeding mums prioritise adequate hydration. Producing milk takes a toll on the body and staying hydrated will help facilitate the first postpartum bowel movement. 4: Dealing with discomfort Postpartum pain and discomfort are expected but manageable. Stock up on pain relief methods recommended by your healthcare provider and warm compresses. If you notice any discomfort as a result of breastfeeding, try our New Beginnings breast care range. Our Aqua Gel Breast Pads and Hot + Cold Breast Packs are a lifesaver. And as the saying goes, if pain persists, see your doctor! 5: Light exercise The best and fastest way to recover will be to slowly introduce moving your body a bit more each day. Start with some short walks and see how your body goes. There are also exercises you can do without even getting up, like strengthening your pelvic floor muscles, with kegels. Just remember, always consult your doctor before beginning any major exercise regimens, and make sure to check in at the 6 week postpartum milestone before getting started. 6: Listen to your body If you don’t feel up to something, don’t push yourself. This isn’t the time to be kicking goals or checking off to-do lists. 7: Healing time Postpartum recovery usually takes around six to eight weeks after delivery, but of course, there are some cases where it can take longer. This is where tip number seven is important, after all, slow and steady wins the race. 8: Vaginal bleeding During this time you’ll also experience things like postpartum bleeding & vaginal discharge. Both, while not pleasant, are your body's way of getting rid of the blood and tissue that was inside your uterus while being pregnant. Make sure you stock up on maxi pads – our New Beginnings Bamboo Maternity Pads are a great option! 9: Trouble in the toilet Experiencing constipation after childbirth is quite common. This is mostly due to pain-relieving meds or if you had an epidural during delivery. Rest assured there are ways to combat the problem: Drink plenty of water Eat high-fiber foods or get yourself some metamucil Try taking a bowel softener from your local chemist If your doctor advises you to take any iron supplements, make sure you select ones that don’t cause constipation 10: Reach out for support Postpartum recovery can bring up a rollercoaster of emotions. This is an important time to surround yourself with the emotional support of your partner, family, or friends. Joining local mother’s groups or seeking counseling can also provide a safe space to share your experiences. Above all, remember to be patient and kind to yourself. Embrace the ups and downs, celebrate small victories, and remind yourself that you're doing an incredible job! Finding yourself Googling everything from boobs and bums to bubs and bibs? Visit our New Beginnings website, where you’ll find a range of helpful articles, products and tips for navigating this new chapter of your life - mummahood.
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Essential Care Packs for New Mums: Postpartum, Pregnancy, and Breastfeeding
Whatever stage you find yourself, new mum care packs can help you navigate this beautiful yet demanding phase. In this blog, we go through essential care packs to support you during each stage of pregnancy, postpartum and beyond.
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Will my vagina go back to normal after childbirth?
Welcome to our latest edition of Boogle Blog where we’re talkin’ vaginas, and how they’re affected after childbirth. There’s no denying it, our lady parts definitely cop a beating when it comes to making little people. They’re poked and prodded, pushed and stretched, and if you’re a first time mum experiencing a vaginal birth, you’ll have a 9 out of 10 chance of vaginal tearing. Yep, your skin rips to make room for your baby’s head! (Ouch, it hurts just writing that). So how does our vjj recover, and will she ever be the same again? To help put your mind (and vagina) at ease, we’ve put a list together of things to expect when you're expecting.Interested in more postpartum information? Explore our Top 10 Tips for Postpartum Recovery. 1. Bleeding after birth After delivering your bub (either vaginally or by C-section), you’ll experience what's called postpartum bleeding, which can last for up to 6 weeks. This is our body's way of shedding the extra tissue and blood from the uterus, bringing it back to pre baby carrying days. Our advice? Stock up on some comfortable disposable pants and maternity pads! You’re welcome. 2. Vaginal tearing There’s no easy way to say it, but if you’re birthing your baby through your lady flower, it isn’t a question of whether it will hurt, but how much. According to a study, more than 53% of births cause tearing around the vaginal opening, so expect to be a little sore for 4-12 weeks. 3. You’ll bruise in places you can’t see After childbirth you may wonder why you’re so sore inside your vagina walls. This is because as your baby passes through, your muscles and skin actually bruise. And while there isn’t really anything you can do to avoid it, it’s good to know that that’s all it is. And it’s totally normal! 4. Things will feel looser If you can push out a baby and your vagina doesn’t change shape, you could be in the Guinness book of World Records because honestly, that just doesn’t happen! Our vaginas stretch and take a little while to return to their new normal shape. So if you’re using a tampon and it doesn’t stay put as easily as it used to, welcome to a new, wider honey-pot. Thank you mother nature! 5. Sex will have to wait Whilst it’s probably not top of mind after pushing out a human recently, but doctors usually advise to wait around 6 weeks after childbirth before having sex, to give the vagina time to heal. So if your partner is pestering you for some sexy time, tell them to read this! 6. The desert vagina Breastfeeding can cause estrogen deficiency, which in turn causes vaginal dryness. And while this will only last as long as you’re nursing, you can introduce a water-based lubricant into your sex life to help, along with topical estrogen cream that you can get from your doctor. 7. New look, who dis? Pregnancy causes estrogen and progesterone to rise, which in turn causes an increased blood flow that can cause the labia to darken and even change shape. Sometimes it retracts, sometimes it appears larger and sometimes it hangs out when it never used to. And while there are some cases where the colour and shape can return to ‘normal’, most women say that their new labia is here to stay. And they’ve learnt to rock it. 8. The Ohhhh in orgasmn might be a little more, ‘uh’. A weakened pelvic floor can unfortunately cause weaker orgasms. But before you go panicking, this is only temporary! As soon as you start working on those kegels, those muscles will regain their strength and you can regain your big O! So while there aren't a huge amount of pluses, just remember that everything is temporary. And when you look at your new bubba, you’ll hopefully see that it’s all worth it in the end. Finding yourself Googling everything from boobs and bums to bubs and bibs? Visit our New Beginnings website, where you’ll find a range of helpful articles, products and tips for navigating this new chapter of your life - mummahood.
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Afterbirth 101 : 8 things they don’t tell you!
First there's pregnancy, then birth, but no one tells you about the post partum fun... Join us as we take a dive into 8 things they don't tell you about after birth. How your body changes, the challenges of your new body and figuring our what's the new normal!
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International Caesarean Awareness Month
International Caesarean Awareness Month is celebrated during the month of April, and aims to provide education, support and recovery for all mum’s who have experienced a c-section. In Australia alone, over 35% of births are by caesarean section, and this stat is only rising. We wanted to explore some of the most common questions, concerns and advice that all mums going through a caesarean birth may need. With the help of some amazing mums in our New Beginnings community, we have put together some words for wisdom for you. 1. Was your C-section planned & would you do it again? Pandora: “No, it was an emergency c-section, I was very open-minded but I really didn’t want a c-section! I would do it again if my baby measured big again because I couldn’t do another 39hr labour, but if the baby was average size I would try for a vaginal birth - recovery sounds easier and I would like to experience it.” Jasmine: “I had an emergency c-section after being induced, I was in labour for 21hours without progression. I would like to try natural birth next time, but I’m not opposed to another caesarean.” Candice: “Yes, my c-section was planned. Unfortunately for a few reasons, we had no choice. It was safest for bub and I. I would 100% do it again if necessary, I was lucky enough to have a calm & stress-free experience!” Brooke: “My baby was breech, so I knew I would have a C-section. I was hoping for a water birth but was advised not to turn my bub, so I processed the fact that c-section was best & safest for us both. I am currently 30 weeks pregnant now with a breech baby again. I am hoping for a VBAC (Vaginal birth after caesarean), but if needed I am prepared to have another c-section and I’m okay with that. 2. Will there be pain? Pandora: “Not as much as I expected, but yes when the drugs wear off and you get up for the first time it will feel like you have been hit by a car. It gets better each day and the baby gives you the motivation to move more than you normally would after a surgery.” Jasmine: “Yes, not during due to the epidural but once that wears off there is lower abdominal pain.” Candice: “Of course, after all, it’s major surgery. With that being said they provide pain medication and tips to combat the pain. I am the biggest chicken/sook when it comes to pain and coped better than I expected. I think the fear is something worse than the end result is.” Brooke: “I was in so much chock and contraction pain that as soon as I was given anaesthesia, I felt relief. I don’t remember any pain during surgery, I could feel pressure and tugging but it was all numb and over quickly.” 3. What are your top tips to help mum recover quickly? Pandora: “A belly band, moving around as much as you can especially in the beginning. Take the pain meds while they are on offer, they will help you get moving.” Jasmine: “Good nutrition helps a lot with the wound healing. Don’t worry about the house work, take it easy and focus on you and bub.” Candice: “Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to do everything!!! Take time to rest, relax & enjoy your new bundle of joy. Follow the docs advice, don’t be ashamed to ask for pain meds...that’s what they’re there for” Brooke: “Placenta encapsulation - I got my placenta half raw and half steamed with Chinese herbs. I recovered really well and really quickly. I am going again with the encapsulation because I felt like they were my super pills!” 4. Is there anything you wish you’d know before your caesarean/C-section? Pandora: “That it was going to happen, but I guess you never know. It would have been good to prepare rather than it be a shock.” Jasmine: “Not really. Being a surgical nurse myself I was pretty aware of the procedure and post-op recovery.” Candice: “That you are not taking the easy way out to have your baby!!! Please don’t let people guilt you.” Brooke: “I didn’t know that some doctors staple and others stitch. I’m sure there are pros and cons to both but I have opted to go with a doctor who stitches again.” 5. What’s the best piece of advice you would give another mum? Pandora: “Even if you want a natural amazing birth, it doesn’t matter if it ends in an emergency c-section. What matters is meeting the love of your life. They may not get here how you want but they are coming and you will fall in love.” Jasmine: “Don’t sweat the little things! As long as you and bub are healthy that’s all that matters. Ask for a stool softener after your procedure to make that first poop easier.” Candice: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help or to clarify things but remember to make sure it works for you. Put yourself first so you can be the best mummy for your baby.” Brooke: “Personalise it as much as you can, we had music on and I asked them to drop the sheet, but they said it was too full on. Do your research and decide what your preference is by looking into things. The most important is to be kind to yourself! Don’t make the baby fit into your life, life changes and that’s how it should be. Slow everything down, cuddle your little human, leave the chores, stay home and enjoy the first bonding weeks - it goes fast, but it’s magic.” Thank you so much to all our beautiful mums for participating in our blog post. Hearing the real experiences from real mums makes it so much easier and comforting for all expecting mums out there. If you have any further questions about caesarean birth contact your healthcare professional or midwife for more information or to find out what’s best for you and bub. Caesarean births are often seen by some as an easy way out, but this like any type of birth is not the case. If you’ve had a c-section, are planning to have one or may need one, we want all mums to know your birth is valid. Your story, your experience and your feelings are real and your scar (and your little one) is proof of that! Looking for information on postpartum recovery? Visit our Top 10 Tips for Postpartum Recovery guide.
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Benefits of Bamboo Maternity Products | New Beginnings
What is Bamboo? Bamboo is an incredibly versatile material used in so many products nowadays. From clothing and linen, to homewares, furniture and, yes, pregnancy products. Sustainable to grow, strong and flexible, and incredibly soft and resilient when woven as a fibre, bamboo has a long list of benefits. That’s why bamboo is the perfect material for pregnant and nursing Mums. Bamboo nursing pads are soft on your skin and super absorbent, while hypoallergenic bamboo baby wipes are kind to theirs. Bamboo is a truly wonderful material which benefits Mums, babies and our environment. Environmental Benefits Reduced farming footprint Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants on earth. It uses around 30% of the water needed to grow cotton and can grow almost a metre in a single day. Less chemicals Bamboo is naturally resistant to pests so doesn’t require chemical spraying while it grows. It also requires far less chemical additives in the manufacturing process, unlike polyester or nylon which produce lots of chemical waste. 100% biodegradable You don’t have to feel guilty about your bamboo baby wipes or nursing pads going into landfill. They break down in as little as 6 months, where products made with plastics clog up our environment for 1,000 years. Benefits of using Bamboo products So we know bamboo nursing pads and baby wipes are kind to the environment. But what about you? There’s more good news! Bamboo is incredibly soft to the touch, perfect for sensitive skin and more effective than almost any other material: Naturally antibacterial fibres make bamboo more hygienic Bamboo absorbs up to 40x its own weight Up to 40% more absorbent than the best cotton Hypoallergenic, ideal for sensitive skin Our bamboo nursing pads are designed with an innovative hex weave for even more absorbency, and chemical-free bamboo baby wipes are the perfect addition to your baby bag. Types of Bamboo Baby Products New Beginnings are well and truly on the bamboo bandwagon. We have seen the benefits of this wonderful eco-friendly material and wanted to create pregnancy products that are as good for the environment as they are for new mums. You can now find a range of essential pregnancy hygiene products on our online store: Disposable bamboo nursing pads Ultra-thin bamboo nursing pads Bamboo baby wipes in boxes or soft packs Bamboo maternity pads Disposable bamboo pants Why Choose New Beginnings bamboo products? As the world continues to find new ways to use bamboo, here at New Beginnings we are dedicated to giving new and expecting Mums the kindest, most effective pregnancy products. Our bamboo nursing pads were specially designed to contour for added comfort. They are capable of absorbing up to 40x their own weight and fit seamlessly into clothes. No more wet patches or uncomfortable clothing – only the soft, non-allergenic feeling of bamboo. For baby, our bamboo dry wipes are not only more effective than traditional baby wipes but also much more environmentally friendly. They are 100% biodegradable as well as being incredibly absorbent and soft on delicate skin. Ready to order your bamboo baby products? Call our order hotline on 1300 768 868, or you can send us an email at sales@newbeginnings.com.au for more information. Don’t forget to sign up to our newsletter at the bottom of the page so we can keep you up-to-date with news and product information specially tailored to new Mums.Looking for more information about bamboo baby and nursing products? Visit our mum's guide to Why I Choose Bamboo Dry Wipes.
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Ultimate Maternity Hospital Bag Checklist: What to bring to hospital
With your due date nearing, having a thoughtfully arranged hospital bag for both you and your newborn is essential. This guide walks you through every must-have item—from paperwork to cozy clothing to baby-ready essentials—and includes a handy printable checklist to simplify your prep.
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Why These Maternity Bras Are An Absolute Game Changer
Being pregnant can take its toll on you physically, mentally and emotionally, and you may not always be able to help those things. Luckily, what you do have power over is what you wear, and this can make a huge difference to how you feel. Read on to find out how New Beginnings gives you complete control of looking AND feeling good!
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